How to Heat Wax at Home

By Tabitha Harwell

Whether you want to create a homemade candle or remove the hair on your legs, the process is done with melted wax. You can find the naturally hard substance at craft and beauty supply stores in a variety of types, scents and sizes; the project you want to complete will help you to determine what type of wax to purchase. If you have never melted wax before, do not fret; the process is simple, but you must be very cautious to melt the wax properly.

Things You'll Need

Microwave-safe bowl

Steamer pot

Melting pot

Microwave

Turn the power wattage down to between 10 and 20 percent. Do not melt wax at a high temperature in the microwave. The microwave cannot distribute the heat evenly throughout the wax and you will end up with hot-spots in the wax.

Cut or break the wax into small chunks, about 1 inch in size, and place in a microwave-safe bowl.

Place the bowl in the microwave and set the timer for 15 seconds. Press “Start.”

Stir the wax with a wooden spoon after 15 seconds. Place back into the microwave and heat for another 15 seconds. Stir the wax. Repeat melting and stirring in 15-second intervals until the wax reaches the desired consistency.

Stove Top Method

Fill a steamer pot three-quarters of the way full with water. Place the pot on the stove top and set the temperature to medium-hot.

Break the wax into small to medium size chunks; small enough to fit into the melting pot.

Insert the melting pot into the steamer pot. The steam from the water will melt the wax.

Heat the wax until it becomes pourable. Once it reaches the consistency you desire, remove the pan from the heat. Use the handle on the wax pot to pour into your desired container.